This course explores important issues and selected advanced topics in qualitative research. It consists of four topics, i.e. paradigms in qualitative research, qualitative research designs, qualitative data collection and analysis, and qualitative writing. While recognizing numerous methodological approaches within qualitative research design, this course provides an exploration of conceptually different methods including grounded theory, narrative enquiry, ethnography, and case study, with an emphasis on the application and critique of these qualitative methods. This course encourages students to critically examine their own stances, goals, reflexivity and voice as a researcher and become well informed of the various ontological, epistemological, and methodological assumptions that guide educational and social research. An overall focus throughout the whole course will be developing students’ ability to explain, justify and defend a research method of their own choice, through taking care to recognize and underscore the inherent differences between qualitative and quantitative research work.